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When it comes to filing taxes, choosing the right software can make a world of difference. TurboTax is one of the most widely recognized tax preparation programs in Canada. It provides different filing options for individuals with straightforward tax situations as well as those with more complicated income, deductions, and credits.
In this review, we’ll explore TurboTax’s features, pricing, user experience, customer support, and how it compares with other Canadian tax software. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of whether TurboTax is the right option for your tax filing needs.
What is TurboTax?
TurboTax is a tax preparation software developed by Intuit, a financial technology company. It is designed to help individuals prepare and file their income tax returns electronically.
TurboTax guides users through the tax filing process with questions and explanations about their income, deductions, and credits. Depending on the service selected, users can prepare their own returns, receive assistance from a tax expert, or have a professional prepare and file their taxes.
TurboTax supports a variety of personal tax situations, including employment income, pension income, investments, rental properties, and self-employment. It also provides access to CRA Auto-fill My Return, which can import eligible tax information available through the Canada Revenue Agency.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | TurboTax Canada |
| Review Rating | 4.1/5 |
| Download | 2,000,000+ |
| Launch / Company History | TurboTax originated in the United States in the 1980s |
| Developer | Intuit Canada |
| Pricing Model | Free and paid options |
| CRA NETFILE | Certified products available for eligible tax years |
| Supported Tax Situations | Employment, pension, investments, rental income, self-employment and more |
| CRA Auto-fill | Yes, for supported products |
| ReFILE | Available for supported tax years and products |
| Platforms | Online website, Windows computer download, iOS and Android mobile apps |
| Customer Support | Help centre, community support and paid expert assistance |
Important certification note: The CRA’s currently published TurboTax certification details cover the 2023 to 2025 tax years for TurboTax Online, and the 2019 to 2025 tax years for the Windows desktop product. Certification for the 2026 tax year, which is filed in 2027, should be checked once the CRA publishes its updated list.
TurboTax Features: A Comprehensive Overview
TurboTax offers several features designed to make preparing and filing taxes easier. Here are some of the main features available to Canadian users.
User-Friendly Interface
TurboTax provides a guided interface that takes users through the tax preparation process. Instead of requiring users to complete every tax form manually, the software asks questions about their personal circumstances, income, and expenses.
This approach can be helpful for first-time filers and people who are not familiar with Canadian tax forms.
Step-by-Step Guidance
The software guides users through different sections of their return, including personal information, employment income, investments, deductions, and tax credits.
The questions and explanations help users understand what information is required and where it belongs in their return.
Deductions and Tax Credit Finder
TurboTax includes tools that help identify deductions and credits that may apply to a user’s tax situation.
Depending on the selected product, it can search for eligible tax-saving opportunities involving donations, medical expenses, employment expenses, investment income, and other areas.
However, these tools do not guarantee that every eligible deduction or credit will be identified. Users should still review their circumstances and verify that the information entered is complete and accurate.
CRA Auto-fill My Return
One of TurboTax’s useful features is its connection to the CRA’s Auto-fill My Return service.
With the user’s authorization, supported TurboTax products can retrieve available tax information from the CRA, including eligible tax slips and other information already on file.
This can reduce manual data entry, but it does not necessarily import every document or financial detail. Taxpayers remain responsible for checking the imported information and adding anything missing.
Importing Previous Tax Data
Returning users may be able to import information from a previous TurboTax return. This can save time by carrying forward relevant information, such as personal details and certain tax amounts.
Users switching from another tax software program can also check TurboTax’s supported import options.
Mobile App Functionality
TurboTax offers mobile applications for iOS and Android. Users can work on their tax returns using a supported mobile device and access features such as document capture and tax information entry.
The available features may differ between the mobile app, online service, and desktop software.
Error Checking and Return Review
TurboTax includes review tools that check for certain missing information, inconsistencies, and common errors before filing.
These checks can help users identify problems, but they do not guarantee that a tax return is completely accurate or that every tax issue has been identified. Users must review their return before submitting it.
NETFILE and ReFILE
TurboTax products that are certified by the CRA can support electronic filing through NETFILE for the tax years and services approved by the CRA.
Some supported products also provide ReFILE, which allows eligible users to submit changes to a previously filed return.
Certification applies to specific software products and tax years. Always check the CRA’s current certified software list before filing.
How Much Does TurboTax Cost?
TurboTax offers free and paid tax filing options. The amount you pay depends on the complexity of your tax situation and whether you want to prepare your own return or receive professional assistance.
Its current product structure includes three main services: Do It Yourself, Expert Assist, and Expert Full Service.
Do It Yourself
The Do It Yourself option is designed for Canadians who want to prepare and file their own tax returns.
| Edition | Listed Price per Return | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Free | Eligible simple tax returns |
| Deluxe | $30 | Returns involving donations, medical expenses, employment expenses and more |
| Premier | $50 | Investment income, capital gains and foreign income |
| Self-Employed | $70 | Freelancers, contractors, side gigs and rental income |
The free option is limited to qualifying simple tax situations. It does not cover every tax form or income type. For example, investment income, rental income, self-employment income, donations, and medical expenses may require a paid edition.
Expert Assist
Expert Assist is for people who want to prepare their own tax returns but would also like help from a tax professional.
| Edition | Listed Price per Return | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $70 | Simple tax situations |
| Deluxe | $100 | Donations, medical expenses and employment expenses |
| Premier | $120 | Investments, capital gains and foreign income |
| Self-Employed | $150 | Self-employment, freelance and rental income |
This option includes access to tax experts while preparing the return and a final expert review. The exact scope and availability of support are subject to TurboTax’s terms.
Expert Full Service
Expert Full Service is designed for people who prefer to have a tax professional handle their return.
| Edition | Listed Price per Return | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $120 | Simple tax situations |
| Deluxe | $165 | Donations, medical expenses and employment expenses |
| Premier | $215 | Investments, capital gains and foreign income |
| Self-Employed | $315 | Self-employment, freelance and rental income |
With this option, a tax expert prepares, reviews, and files the return based on the information and documents supplied by the customer.
Is TurboTax Free?
Yes, TurboTax offers a free filing option in Canada, but it is not suitable for every taxpayer.
The free Do It Yourself option is intended for qualifying simple tax returns. People with more complicated tax situations may need to upgrade to a paid product.
Before selecting a plan, review the list of supported income types, deductions, credits, and tax forms. Do not assume that every return can be filed for free.
Pricing reminder: The amounts above are the prices currently displayed on TurboTax Canada’s product pages for the available services. They may change, and promotional offers may apply. Check the official pricing page before purchasing.
How to Use TurboTax: A Step-by-Step Guide
Using TurboTax to prepare and file your Canadian tax return is a guided process. Here is a general overview of the steps.
- Create an Account: Visit the TurboTax Canada website or download the supported mobile application. Create an account or sign in if you are a returning user.
- Choose Your Filing Option: Select Do It Yourself, Expert Assist, or Expert Full Service. Choose the appropriate tax complexity level based on your income and tax situation.
- Enter Personal Information: Provide the required personal details, including your name, address, and Social Insurance Number (SIN).
- Import Tax Information: If available, connect to the CRA’s Auto-fill My Return service to retrieve eligible tax slips and information. Review the imported information carefully.
- Enter Income Information: Add any income that has not been imported, such as employment income, self-employment income, rental income, or investment income.
- Claim Deductions and Credits: Answer the software’s questions about eligible deductions and tax credits. Review the results to make sure relevant information has been included.
- Review Your Return: Use TurboTax’s review and error-checking tools. Check all income, deductions, credits, and personal details before filing.
- File Your Return: If your selected product is certified for the relevant tax year and you meet CRA NETFILE requirements, submit your return electronically.
- Check Your Filing Status: Keep your submission confirmation and check your CRA account for updates on your return and refund.
Remember that using tax software does not remove your responsibility to provide complete and accurate information.
TurboTax vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?
TurboTax is one of several tax preparation options available to Canadians. Other popular choices include Wealthsimple Tax, H&R Block, and StudioTax.
Here is a general comparison of their services.
TurboTax vs. Wealthsimple Tax
Wealthsimple Tax is another popular Canadian tax preparation service. It offers a pay-what-you-want Basic plan, including the option to pay $0, as well as paid plans with additional support.
- Pricing: Wealthsimple Tax Basic allows users to pay what they want, while TurboTax offers free and paid filing options. TurboTax’s Expert Assist and Full Service options provide additional professional support.
- Features: Both services provide guided tax preparation and CRA Auto-fill functionality. Their available forms and support options vary by plan.
- Support: TurboTax offers paid access to tax experts through Expert Assist and Full Service. Wealthsimple Tax provides additional support through its paid plans.
Which is better? Wealthsimple Tax may appeal to people looking for a flexible, lower-cost DIY option. TurboTax may be more suitable for people who want access to tax professionals or prefer a more guided service.
TurboTax vs. H&R Block
H&R Block is another established tax preparation provider in Canada, offering online tax software and professional tax preparation services.
- Pricing: Both providers offer different pricing levels depending on the complexity of the return and the type of assistance selected.
- Features: Both offer guided tax preparation, tax information import features, and tools to help identify deductions and credits.
- Support: H&R Block offers online and in-person tax preparation options, while TurboTax offers online expert assistance and full-service tax preparation.
Which is better? H&R Block may be a good option for people who prefer access to in-person tax services. TurboTax may be more convenient for users who want to complete the process online.
TurboTax vs. StudioTax
StudioTax is a Canadian tax preparation program that offers a desktop license and a free mobile app, with free desktop use available to qualifying users.
- Pricing: StudioTax’s desktop license is listed at $17.50 for up to 10 returns, while free use is available to qualifying users. TurboTax has a free option as well as paid DIY and expert services.
- Features: Both programs support eligible personal tax situations and CRA electronic filing services for certified tax years. TurboTax provides a more guided online experience and additional professional assistance options.
- Support: TurboTax offers paid expert services, while StudioTax provides documentation and support resources.
Which is better? StudioTax may be attractive to people comfortable preparing their own returns who want a low-cost desktop option. TurboTax may suit users who prefer a guided online experience or want professional help.
TurboTax Benefits: Why Choose TurboTax?
There are several reasons why Canadians may consider TurboTax when preparing their income tax returns.
Guided Tax Preparation
TurboTax’s step-by-step process can make tax preparation easier, particularly for people who are unfamiliar with Canadian tax forms.
Tools for Deductions and Credits
Its deduction and credit prompts can help users identify tax-saving opportunities that may apply to their circumstances.
CRA Auto-fill Integration
The ability to import available CRA tax information can reduce manual entry and make the preparation process more convenient.
Different Levels of Assistance
TurboTax provides flexibility through its three main services. Users can prepare their own returns, receive help from an expert, or have an expert prepare and file the return.
Online and Mobile Access
TurboTax is available through an online service, supported desktop software, and mobile applications. This gives users different ways to work on their tax returns.
Support and Resources
TurboTax provides online help resources and a community forum. Users who need more personalized assistance can consider Expert Assist or Expert Full Service.
TurboTax Customer Support and Resources
TurboTax provides several resources to help users during the tax preparation process.
TurboTax Help Centre
The Help Centre includes articles, instructions, and answers to common questions about filing, accounts, tax forms, and software features.
TurboTax Community
The TurboTax Community allows users to browse discussions and ask questions about common tax preparation issues.
Expert Assist
Customers who select Expert Assist can connect with tax experts while preparing their returns. The service includes a final review by an expert, subject to the applicable terms.
Expert Full Service
Customers who select Expert Full Service can have a tax expert prepare, review, and file their returns.
For current assistance options, visit the official TurboTax Canada support website.
User Reviews and Testimonials
User experiences can vary depending on the tax situation, selected product, and level of support.
Some common positive themes associated with TurboTax include:
Positive Experiences
- Ease of Use: The guided interface can make tax preparation easier for people who prefer answering questions instead of completing forms manually.
- Convenience: CRA Auto-fill and previous-year information import can reduce some manual work.
- Different Service Options: Users can choose between preparing their own return and receiving professional help.
- Tax Preparation Guidance: The software provides prompts and explanations to help users work through their tax information.
Common Complaints
- Cost: Paid editions and expert services may be more expensive than some competing DIY tax software.
- Free Version Limitations: The free option is restricted to qualifying simple tax situations.
- Upgrades: Users may discover that their tax situation requires a paid edition after beginning their return.
- Privacy Considerations: Some taxpayers may prefer to avoid entering personal and financial information into an online third-party service.
Rather than relying on a single review score, prospective users should compare current product features, pricing, support, and privacy information before choosing a service.
Common Issues with TurboTax and How to Resolve Them
Although TurboTax is designed to guide users through tax preparation, some people may encounter technical or filing issues.
Here are a few common problems and possible solutions.
Login and Account Issues
Problem: Users may have difficulty signing in or may forget their account password.
Solution: Use the password recovery option on the TurboTax sign-in page. Check that you are using the correct email address and follow the account recovery instructions.
Error Messages
Problem: Users may encounter error messages while completing their returns.
Solution: Read the message carefully and follow the instructions provided. Check the TurboTax Help Centre for the specific error code. If the problem continues, contact TurboTax support.
Importing CRA Tax Information
Problem: Some tax slips or information may not appear when using CRA Auto-fill My Return.
Solution: Remember that the service can only retrieve information available in the CRA system at the time of the request. Contact the issuer if a tax slip is missing, and enter other required information manually.
Importing Previous Tax Data
Problem: Users may have difficulty importing information from a previous return or another tax program.
Solution: Check that the file is in a supported format and follow TurboTax’s import instructions. If the issue persists, consult the Help Centre.
CRA NETFILE Rejection
Problem: A tax return may be rejected after electronic submission.
Solution: Review the CRA rejection message and identify the reason for the rejection. Correct the relevant information and resubmit if permitted. If you cannot resolve the issue, contact TurboTax support or the CRA as appropriate.
Final Verdict: Is TurboTax Worth It?
TurboTax remains a flexible tax preparation option for Canadians, offering a range of services for different tax situations and levels of assistance.
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Pros
- User-Friendly: Its guided interface and step-by-step questions can make tax preparation easier for beginners.
- Multiple Filing Options: Users can choose DIY filing, expert assistance, or full-service tax preparation.
- CRA Auto-fill: Supported products can import available tax information from the CRA.
- Tax Deduction Tools: Built-in prompts can help identify eligible deductions and credits.
- Complex Tax Situations: Paid editions support a wider range of tax situations, including investments, rental income, and self-employment.
- Online and Mobile Access: Users can prepare returns using supported online, desktop, and mobile products.
Cons
- Paid Options Can Be Expensive: Expert assistance and full-service filing can cost considerably more than DIY alternatives.
- Limited Free Filing: The free option is intended for qualifying simple returns and does not cover every tax situation.
- Plan Selection Can Be Confusing: Users need to understand which edition supports their income types and tax forms.
- Certification Is Tax-Year Specific: Users should confirm that their chosen product is CRA-certified for the tax year they are filing.
Overall, TurboTax is worth considering if you want guided tax preparation, access to CRA Auto-fill, and the option to receive professional assistance. However, if your tax return is straightforward and you are comfortable filing independently, a lower-cost alternative such as Wealthsimple Tax or StudioTax may be worth comparing.
The best choice depends on your tax situation, budget, and how much assistance you want during the filing process.
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More TurboTax FAQs
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In Conclusion
TurboTax is a well-known tax preparation service in Canada with options for people who want to file independently or receive professional assistance. Its guided process, CRA Auto-fill integration, deduction tools, and different service levels make it a convenient choice for many taxpayers.
Before choosing a plan, compare the current pricing and supported tax forms with other Canadian tax software. If you have a simple return, a free or lower-cost option may be sufficient. If you have a more complicated tax situation or want professional assistance, TurboTax’s paid services may provide additional value.
Additional Resources:
- TurboTax Canada pricing and product comparison: Official TurboTax pricing page
- TurboTax Do It Yourself: DIY plans and features
- TurboTax Expert Assist: Expert Assist plans
- TurboTax Expert Full Service: Full Service plans
- CRA TurboTax certification details: CRA certified software details
- CRA Auto-fill My Return: CRA Auto-fill guidance
